In this episode of The Samurai Way, I welcome Laura G. Anthony, attorney, consultant, mediator, and nationally recognized advocate for neurodiversity and inclusive leadership. With a career dedicated to disability law, conflict resolution, and organizational transformation, Laura helps leaders and communities create environments where all kinds of minds can thrive. Our conversation explores her deeply personal journey growing up with a mother who survived an anoxic traumatic brain injury. From navigating childhood as a young caregiver to witnessing her mother relearn language and pursue lifelong learning, Laura’s early experiences shaped her fascination with how people think, process information, and communicate differently. Together, we discuss: • How childhood adversity can shape purpose and leadership • Why “great minds don’t think alike” and how innovation depends on cognitive diversity • The concept of neuroinclusion in workplaces, schools, and families • What universal design means and how the “curb cut effect” benefits everyone • The hidden cost of masking and why many people hesitate to ask for support • How changing environments, not individuals, creates lasting inclusion Lori also shares her own experience as a traumatic brain injury survivor, including her journey with auditory processing challenges and recovery. Through the lens of Ganbaru and integrity, this episode highlights resilience, adaptation, and the power of designing systems that honor human difference. Laura reminds us of a powerful truth: when a flower does not bloom, you fix the environment in which it grows, not the flower. This episode is about shifting from awareness to action, embracing cognitive diversity as strength, and building cultures where everyone has the opportunity to contribute fully. If you are a leader, educator, parent, or someone passionate about inclusion and human potential, this conversation will challenge and inspire you to think differently about how we design the spaces we live and work in. Connect with Laura G. Anthony Website: https://lauraganthony.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauraganthony/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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